Purdy, who turned 24 in December, is coming off an impressive 2023 campaign, setting a single-season franchise record with 4,280 passing yards. This achievement is notable for an organization that once featured legends like Joe Montana and Steve Young.
"'Mr. Irrelevant,' as the last pick in the 2022 draft, has quickly established himself as plenty relevant after winning his first seven starts (including two playoff games before his elbow injury) in his rookie season and following it up with a tremendous 2023 season," Diamond wrote.
Purdy is ranked one spot above last season's NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, quarterback C.J. Stroud of the Houston Texans in Diamond's ranking. The 49ers quarterback led the NFL with a 113.0 passer rating while throwing 31 touchdowns, tying for the fourth-most in franchise history and the most since Jeff Garcia tossed 32 in 2001.
"He directed the San Francisco 49ers to the NFC West title and then the Super Bowl before falling to the Chiefs in overtime," Diamond continued. "He showed good running ability on top of his passing skill in a Pro Bowl season."
Purdy is slated to become the 49ers' highest-paid player next offseason and could earn a spot among the highest-paid players in NFL history with another performance like last season's.
"A big payday awaits Purdy if he continues at his current pace," Diamond concluded.